Enzo Maresca addresses the noise around his Chelsea future

Last Updated on 19 December 2025

Speculation has been swirling around one of the Premier League’s newest managerial projects and this time, the noise hasn’t been coming from Stamford Bridge.

With uncertainty lingering over a major vacancy in the Premier League, Enzo Maresca became the centre of discussions on Thursday night.

On Friday, Enzo Maresca finally spoke, ahead of Chelsea’s match against Newcastle United.

Enzo Maresca shuts down Manchester City links in clear terms

Enzo Maresca has dismissed reports linking him with a potential move to Manchester City, calling the speculation “100 per cent” unfounded.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Chelsea’s trip to Newcastle, the Italian was unequivocal when asked about rumours suggesting he could be on City’s shortlist should Pep Guardiola depart at the end of the season.

“It doesn’t affect me at all because I know it’s 100 per cent speculation,” Maresca said. “First of all, I have a contract here until 2029.”

Reports earlier this week suggested City were considering Maresca as a long-term option, given Guardiola’s contract runs until 2027 and the club’s desire to plan well in advance.

Maresca’s previous work under Guardiola, first with City’s Under-23s and later as part of the senior coaching staff, has only fuelled that narrative.

But when asked directly if he could guarantee his presence at Chelsea beyond this season, Maresca left no room for interpretation.

“Absolutely, yes,” he replied.

Manchester City outline two names as Pep Guardiola asks them to ‘prepare’ for a successor

According to the BBC, Manchester City have outlined at least ‘two names’ as the search for Pep Guardiola’s successor begins, behind the scenes.

Guardiola also did not shut down the rumors about his departure.

“None of us will be forever in this world but there are no discussions. What is going to happen will happen and the club has to be prepared for everything. For the players and the CEOs, except the owners.”

David Ornstein revealed yesterday that Hugo Viana, City’s sporting director, had Enzo Maresca on his radar.